If he can escape the Italian Grand Prix with a top-five finish, Daniel Ricciardo believes he’ll remain a contender for the Formula One championship.

But the Australian knows even that’s a big ask, given Monza is the fastest track on the calendar and Red Bull’s struggles with straight-line speed.

“On paper, it should be our worst circuit,” he told SEN radio ahead of Sunday’s race.

Ricciardo sits third on the overall standings, 65 points behind Nico Rosberg and 35 points adrift of fellow Mercedes star Lewis Hamilton.

He is the only non-Mercedes driver to win a grand prix this season with three victories to his name – including the last two in Hungary and Belgium.

“Not to talk it down too much, but their (Mercedes’) pace is really good,” the 25-year-old said.

“I’ve been there to capitalise when maybe they have tripped over each other or had some issues.

“But that sort of stuff can happen in racing.

“I think if we survive this one with a nice podium or top-five, I think we can then realistically have a crack (at the title).”

Ricciardo said he was paying little attention to the reported friction between Rosberg and Hamilton, but when asked how his relationship was with four-time world champion teammate Sebastian Vettel, he laughed in reply: “I think it’s better than theirs.

“Coming into the season there were stories about Seb and Mark (Webber), that they didn’t get on well or whatever was going on.

“But we’ve got on well.

“He’s shown me a lot of respect. Obviously I’ve had the upper hand, particularly the last few races with the wins.

“I’m sure he’s the guy that would love to be doing the winning, but at the same time he’s shown me respect and congratulated me and I think we work really well (together).”

Seven grands prix remain this season, with double points on offer at the finale in Abu Dhabi.